Specialized XC Bike: S-Works Epic 8
SPECIAL THANKS TO SPECIALIZED.COM FOR THE
INFORMATION AND IMAGES CONTIANED IN THIS ARTICLE.
The Specialized S-Works Epic 8 is this week’s “Bicycle of the Week.” Unleash the apex of cross-country performance with the all-new Specialized S-Works Epic 8, a specialized XC bike engineered for those who crave nothing but speed and supremacy on the
The Epic 8’s progressive geometry and unparalleled efficiency set a new standard in XC racing, with custom-tuned shocks that devour every bump.
This is more than a bike—it’s a finely-tuned weapon, designed for riders who demand maximum capability without compromise. Get ready to dominate the track with the most capable 120mm mountain bike ever created. The Epic 8 isn’t just fast; it’s a force of nature.
Frameset
When it comes to the frameset of the Specialized S-Works Epic 8, innovation and precision come standard. Constructed from S-Works FACT 12m Carbon, this specialized XC bike is a true testament to what cutting-edge engineering can achieve.
The carbon fiber frame is meticulously crafted to offer a lightweight structure that doesn’t compromise on strength. This results in a frameset that not only reduces overall weight but also enhances stiffness, translating your every watt into forward momentum.
The Epic 8’s Progressive XC Race Geometry is where this bike truly shines. Designed with Rider-First Engineered™ technology, the bike geometry is tailored to provide optimal performance across all frame sizes, ensuring every rider experiences the same razor-sharp handling and agility.
Whether you’re tackling steep climbs or technical descents, this specialized XC bike delivers stability when you need it and agility when you crave it.
One of the standout features of the Epic 8’s frameset is the SWAT internal downtube storage. This clever integration allows you to carry essential tools and gear without sacrificing aesthetics or aerodynamics. No more bulky saddle bags or jersey pockets weighing you down—everything you need is neatly tucked away inside the downtube, ready for when you need it most.
The frameset also comes equipped with a Specialized Alloy 34.9 seat binder with a titanium bolt, ensuring your dropper post is securely fastened while keeping weight to a minimum.
The bike is optimized for a wireless drivetrain and seat post, which not only cleans up the overall look but also reduces potential points of failure. With a threaded bottom bracket and UDH-compatible rear dropout, the Epic 8 frameset is as durable as it is advanced.
Finally, the internal cable routing not only gives this specialized XC bike a sleek, clean appearance but also protects the cables from the elements, ensuring smooth and reliable shifting and braking performance. With 120mm of travel, the Epic 8 is ready to handle the rigors of modern cross-country racing, offering a ride that’s as smooth as it is fast.
Suspension
Rear Shock
At the heart of the rear suspension is the RockShox SIDLuxe ULTIMATE Flight Attendant. This isn’t just any shock—it’s a marvel of modern suspension technology, meticulously tuned to deliver an unmatched riding experience.
With its Ride Dynamics-developed 3-position system, you can effortlessly switch between settings to optimize your ride for any terrain. Whether you’re blasting through rock gardens or cruising along smoother trails, this full suspension system adapts to provide the perfect balance of efficiency and control.
The Solo Air spring inside the SID Luxe ULTIMATE ensures that the shock is both lightweight and highly responsive. It compresses smoothly, soaking up the bumps and keeping your tires glued to the ground, which translates to better traction and more confidence as you tackle technical sections.
Measuring 190x45mm, this rear shock is finely tuned to work in harmony with the Epic 8’s progressive geometry, ensuring that every pedal stroke propels you forward with minimal energy loss.
In the world of cross-country racing, every detail matters. The RockShox SIDLuxe ULTIMATE is designed not just to keep you comfortable but to help you maintain speed and control, even when the going gets rough.
This specialized XC bike offers a rear shock that doesn’t just smooth out the ride—it elevates your entire riding experience, making you faster, more efficient, and ready to conquer any challenge the trail throws your way.
Fork
Paired perfectly with the rear shock is the RockShox SID ULTIMATE Flight Attendant fork, a front suspension system that mirrors the precision and performance of the rear. Featuring 120mm of travel, this fork is built to absorb the hits without compromising your speed.
Its DebonAir spring is designed to be supple yet supportive, allowing you to glide over roots and rocks while maintaining control.
The Ride Dynamics-developed 3-position system offers easy adjustability, letting you dial in the perfect setup for the trail ahead. Whether you need full travel for technical descents or a firmer feel for climbs, this fork adapts with just the flick of a switch.
The 15x110mm axle and 44mm offset ensure that your front end remains stiff and responsive, providing confidence-inspiring bike handling even on the most challenging trails.
In combination with the rear shock, the RockShox SID ULTIMATE Flight Attendant fork completes the suspension package of this specialized XC bike, delivering a ride that’s as smooth as it is fast. Together, they form a dynamic duo that not only enhances your comfort but also boosts your performance, ensuring that every ride on the S-Works Epic 8 is nothing short of epic.
Cockpit
Seat Post
The Specialized S-Works Epic 8’s cockpit is designed with the rider’s comfort and control at the forefront. The RockShox Reverb AXS dropper post is a game-changer for this specialized XC bike, offering wireless actuation and adjustable travel specific to your frame size.
Whether you’re navigating technical descents or powering through flat sections, this dropper post ensures you’re always in the optimal riding position, allowing for seamless transitions between climbing and descending.
Saddle
Topping off the seat post is the Body Geometry S-Works Power saddle, featuring carbon fiber rails and a carbon fiber base. This saddle is not just lightweight; it’s engineered to maximize power transfer while providing all-day comfort. The ergonomic design supports your sit bones perfectly, reducing pressure on soft tissue and ensuring that you can ride longer without discomfort.
Handlebars
Up front, the Roval Control SL Integrated cockpit takes the handlebars to a new level of precision and integration. With a 60mm integrated stem, 12-degree backsweep, and a 1-degree upsweep, these 760mm wide handlebars provide a perfect balance of control and comfort.
The design promotes an aggressive yet natural hand position, helping you steer this specialized XC bike through the tightest corners with confidence.
Grips
To round out the cockpit, Specialized Trail Grips ensure your hands stay firmly in place, even on the most rugged terrain. The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue, providing a secure and comfortable grip that complements the high-performance nature of the Epic 8.
These grips, combined with the overall cockpit setup, make for a ride that is both controlled and responsive, perfectly suited to the demands of modern cross-country racing.
Brakes
Front Brake
The braking power on the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 is nothing short of extraordinary, ensuring you maintain full control no matter the speed or terrain. Up front, the SRAM Level Ultimate Stealth hydraulic disc brake features a 4-piston caliper and a 180mm rotor, delivering exceptional stopping power with a smooth and consistent feel.
Whether you’re charging down a steep descent or needing a precise modulation in technical sections, this front brake keeps you in command of your ride at all times, enhancing the overall trail performance of this specialized XC bike.
Rear Brake
Complementing the front, the rear brake on the Epic 8 is also a SRAM Level Ultimate Stealth, with a slightly smaller 160mm rotor that strikes the perfect balance between power and weight.
This 4-piston caliper setup provides excellent stopping power and modulation, ensuring that the rear of the bike responds precisely when you need to scrub speed or navigate tricky descents. Together, these brakes make the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 a top contender in the world of cross-country racing, offering the confidence and control you need to push your limits on every ride.
Drivetrain
Rear Derailleur
The Specialized S-Works Epic 8 is equipped with the cutting-edge SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS rear derailleur, bringing wireless precision shifting to your cycling experience. This derailleur is designed to handle the demands of cross-country racing, offering crisp, reliable shifts even under the most intense conditions.
Whether you’re powering up a climb or sprinting on the flats, this derailleur ensures that your specialized XC bike responds instantly, keeping you in the optimal gear at all times.
Shift Levers
Paired with the derailleur, the SRAM AXS POD Ultimate Controller shift levers provide seamless control at your fingertips. The intuitive design allows for quick, effortless shifts, so you can stay focused on the trail ahead. With the simplicity of wireless operation, you can enjoy a clutter-free cockpit that enhances the overall aesthetics and functionality of your ride.
Cassette
The SRAM XX Eagle SL 10-52t cassette offers an impressive gear range, giving you the versatility to tackle steep climbs and fast descents with equal ease. The wide gear range ensures that you’ll always have the right cadence, whether you’re grinding up a long ascent or blasting down a technical section. This cassette is lightweight yet durable, perfectly complementing the performance-oriented nature of the Epic 8.
Chain
The drivetrain is completed by the SRAM XX SL Eagle chain, which delivers smooth and reliable performance mile after mile. Its lightweight construction doesn’t sacrifice strength, ensuring that your power is efficiently transferred to the wheels. This chain is engineered to work in harmony with the rest of the SRAM Eagle components, providing a drivetrain that’s both robust and responsive.
Crankset
Powering the drivetrain is the SRAM XX SL Eagle Power Meter Crankset, available in both 170mm and 175mm lengths. This crankset not only provides the stiffness needed for efficient power transfer but also integrates a power meter, allowing you to track your performance with precision.
The crankset’s lightweight design reduces overall bike weight, contributing to the nimble feel of this specialized XC bike.
Chainrings
The alloy 34T chainring is perfectly sized to offer a balance of speed and climbing ability, making it ideal for the varied demands of cross-country racing. The chainring’s durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh conditions, while its precise design maintains optimal chain retention.
Bottom Bracket
At the core of the drivetrain is the SRAM DUB bottom bracket, with a BSA 73mm threaded interface that ensures a secure and stable connection between the crankset and frame.
This bottom bracket is designed for durability and smooth operation, contributing to the overall efficiency of the drivetrain. It’s a crucial component that helps maintain the Epic 8’s legendary bike handling, allowing you to push your limits with confidence on every trail.
Wheels & Tires
The wheels and tires on the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 are designed to offer the perfect balance of speed, durability, and control, ensuring that this specialized XC bike delivers an exceptional ride on any terrain.
The Roval Control SL rims are a standout feature on this specialized XC bike, crafted from carbon with an offset design that maximizes strength while minimizing weight.
With a 29mm internal width and a 4mm hook width, these rims are built to provide a stable platform for wider tires, enhancing tire grip and control on technical trails. Plus, they’re tubeless-ready, allowing you to run lower pressures for better grip without the worry of pinch flats.
At the heart of the wheelset are the Roval Control SL hubs, which feature DT Swiss internals for smooth, reliable performance. The front hub is equipped with ceramic bearings and 15mm thru-axle spacing, ensuring a stiff and responsive front end.
The rear hub, also built with DT Swiss 180 internals and the Ratchet EXP system, offers lightning-fast engagement for when you need to put the power down on your specialized XC bike.
Both hubs are designed with straight-pull spokes for added strength and durability, making sure your wheels stay true and responsive, even under the most demanding conditions.
The wheels are laced with DT Swiss Aerolite T-head spokes, known for their strength and aerodynamics. These spokes help to reduce drag, allowing you to maintain speed with less effort. Combined with the lightweight rims and hubs, they make the Epic 8 feel incredibly agile, whether you’re climbing steep inclines or descending at breakneck speeds.
The Quarq TyreWiz 2.0 system adds a modern touch, providing real-time tire pressure data so you can fine-tune your setup for optimal performance.
Wrapping the wheels are Specialized’s own tires, chosen to complement the performance-oriented nature of the Epic 8. Up front, the Fast Trak tire with Control Casing and T7 Compound offers a great balance of speed and grip, perfect for varied trail conditions.
The rear tire, the Specialized Renegade with Control Casing and T5 Compound, is designed for low rolling resistance, helping you maintain momentum on fast, flowy sections.
Together, these tires provide a confident ride, ensuring that the specialized XC bike grips where it needs to and rolls fast where it counts. With the added protection of Specialized Turbo Tubes, you can be sure that your ride will be smooth, reliable, and ready for whatever the trail throws at you.
This setup ensures downhill stability, cycling efficiency, and trail control, making the S-Works Epic 8 a true race-ready bike with unparalleled trail performance and terrain adaptability.
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